Race and ethnicity for some people are all defining. There are what makes them who they are. Race and ethncity are definately connected to our identities. But to what degree should race and ethnicity be used to determine who one is? According to the text, race is not really as biological as it is a social construct. This is rather a hard concept to grasp as it is readily apparent a lot of times whether one is African American, East Asian or European. Or is it? Consider Tiger Woods. In the generalist of terms he is refered to as being black (African-American). Yet neither one of his parents is completely black. So what makes it so important that he be seen as black? Clearly, this is not the result of biology, but rather a creation of society, or better, those in society that have a vested interest in Tiger Woods being seen as black. Thus, his race is a social construct.
Please read this article for your next class (May 6th or 7th): http://www.newint.org/features/2009/05/01/keynote-multiculturalism/
For those of you that think that there is an inherent undercurrent of religion being expressed in the War on Terror consider the following video. As you watch it consider what fear is being fed, and how the makers are attempting to influence people.
For the learning objectives of this chapter go to http://wps.ablongman.com/ab_henslin_sociology_8/43/11212/2870379.cw/index.html
Race and ethnicity for some people are all defining. There are what makes them who they are. Race and ethncity are definately connected to our identities. But to what degree should race and ethnicity be used to determine who one is? According to the text, race is not really as biological as it is a social construct. This is rather a hard concept to grasp as it is readily apparent a lot of times whether one is African American, East Asian or European. Or is it? Consider Tiger Woods. In the generalist of terms he is refered to as being black (African-American). Yet neither one of his parents is completely black. So what makes it so important that he be seen as black? Clearly, this is not the result of biology, but rather a creation of society, or better, those in society that have a vested interest in Tiger Woods being seen as black. Thus, his race is a social construct.
Please read this article for your next class (May 6th or 7th): http://www.newint.org/features/2009/05/01/keynote-multiculturalism/
For those of you that think that there is an inherent undercurrent of religion being expressed in the War on Terror consider the following video. As you watch it consider what fear is being fed, and how the makers are attempting to influence people.
Racism can happen to even students at a university.
A more recent event that took place in the US against Korean students: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/05/113_44232.html
Your assignment in this class. It is due by the end of our last class for the week of May 6-8:
Lesson 2
Here is a story that I found very touching. Please, watch the following video as part of our second lesson on Race and Ethnicity.
This is your chance to make a positive impact on Korean society. Here is your assignment: